The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFOMS) on Friday, March 13, expressed serious concern over recent incidents of alleged harassment against media workers, warning that such actions threaten press freedom and democratic transparency in the country.

In a statement, the task force said it was particularly alarmed by reports of a supposed systematic disinformation campaign allegedly orchestrated by foreign entities against journalist Regine Cabato and the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ).

The alleged attacks reportedly stem from their reporting on the spread of pro-China disinformation across Philippine media outlets and online platforms.

PTFOMS said efforts to discredit or intimidate journalists who report on issues of public interest constitute a direct assault on press freedom. The task force emphasized that any form of foreign interference intended to silence Filipino journalists and undermine independent media will be taken with utmost seriousness.

The agency also raised concern over recent legal actions involving veteran journalists Misael 'Boy' Gonzales Jr. of DZRH and Felix Laban of DZME Radyo Uno TV. Gonzales was arrested by police for an alleged violation of the Data Privacy Act of 2012 and was eventually released after posting bail.

Meanwhile, Laban was able to post bail with assistance from the task force.

PTFOMS said it is currently investigating and closely monitoring the incidents in coordination with media organizations and law enforcement agencies, reiterating its commitment to protect the rights, safety, and security of journalists across the Philippines.